Expelled South African envoy accuses Trump administration of racism

Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa's former ambassador to the US, spoke to the BBC. He stated that racism exists within the Trump administration.

Rasool was expelled from the US last week. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called him a "race-baiting politician who hates America." This followed Rasool's accusation that President Trump promotes "white victimhood."

In an interview with BBC's Newshour, Rasool said, "I think it is self-evident rather than anyone needing to be called out.” The BBC has requested a comment from the White House.

After his expulsion, Rasool compared the situation to a door with a hinge. He pointed out the administration's focus on deporting migrants and targeting foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian protests. He also accused Trump's team of rallying far-right communities.

The Trump administration denies any accusations of racism. The president claims he has a mandate to deport thousands of undocumented migrants. Rubio defended revoking student visas for those causing chaos on campuses.

US-South Africa relations have worsened since Trump took office in January. Trump and Elon Musk have criticized South Africa’s land reform policies specifically.

Trump cut all aid to South Africa but stated that white Afrikaners could receive refugee status in the US due to alleged persecution at home. The South African government aims to address racial and economic imbalances from decades of white-minority rule.

Rasool rejected claims that Afrikaners face discrimination. He called such assertions "an unadulterated lie." He emphasized that these claims tarnish the legacy of Nelson Mandela’s leadership.

When asked about his language being undiplomatic, Rasool responded that South Africa's dignity is at stake. He believes one cannot ignore falsehoods about their country.

Upon returning home to a hero's welcome, Rasool expressed no regrets about his comments. When asked if he was surprised by the backlash, he noted the US administration's sensitivity to criticism.

He remarked on how they have endured lies about white genocide and cuts in aid without response. Rasool felt conventional diplomacy had failed and needed change.

While acknowledging his diplomatic role requires maintaining communication, he insisted diplomacy should not involve flattery or accepting lies as truth.

Rasool aimed to describe issues back home honestly so they could not continue business as usual with the US.

Relations between the US and South Africa deteriorated further this year when Trump cut aid over new Expropriation Laws allowing land confiscation without compensation under certain conditions.

Another contentious issue is South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). South Africa accuses Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, which Israel denies.

Rasool previously served as US ambassador from 2010 to 2015 during Barack Obama's presidency before returning last year.